My Love Affair with Uzbekistan: An Introduction
I’ll never forget the moment I stepped out of Tashkent International Airport in 2018, greeted by the scent of non (Uzbek bread) and the harmonious chaos of taxi drivers vying for my attention. That first trip sparked five more visits, most recently in early 2024, and I’ve witnessed Uzbekistan’s remarkable tourism evolution firsthand. What started as a personal adventure has become something of an obsession—learning Uzbek phrases, befriending local families, and discovering hidden gems beyond the famous Silk Road cities.
This 2025 cheat sheet distills everything I’ve learned through trial, error, and occasional misadventure (like the time I accidentally ordered sheep’s brain in Bukhara—more on that later). Whether you’re drawn to Uzbekistan’s stunning Islamic architecture, vibrant bazaars, or the warm hospitality known as mehmonnavozlik, I’ve created this guide to help you navigate this Central Asian jewel like a semi-local.
After the pandemic’s tourism reset and Uzbekistan’s visa reforms, 2025 is arguably the perfect time to explore this underrated destination. Enough infrastructure exists for comfortable travel, but you’ll still experience authentic cultural exchanges far from mass tourism’s beaten path.
Essential Planning: When to Go & What to Expect in 2025
Uzbekistan’s climate is continental with extreme seasonal variations. After multiple visits across different seasons, I’ve found the sweet spots are April-May and September-October. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F) in cities like Bukhara, making sightseeing uncomfortable, while winter brings freezing temperatures, especially in Tashkent.
2025 Climate Calendar for Key Destinations
| Month | Tashkent | Samarkand | Bukhara | Khiva | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January-February | 0°C to 5°C (32-41°F) | 0°C to 7°C (32-45°F) | -1°C to 6°C (30-43°F) | -4°C to 2°C (25-36°F) | Avoid unless you enjoy winter landscapes |
| March | 5°C to 15°C (41-59°F) | 5°C to 16°C (41-61°F) | 5°C to 17°C (41-63°F) | 3°C to 14°C (37-57°F) | Improving but unpredictable |
| April-May | 12°C to 27°C (54-81°F) | 11°C to 26°C (52-79°F) | 12°C to 28°C (54-82°F) | 10°C to 26°C (50-79°F) | Ideal – spring blooms and perfect temperatures |
| June-August | 24°C to 38°C (75-100°F) | 23°C to 36°C (73-97°F) | 25°C to 40°C (77-104°F) | 25°C to 39°C (77-102°F) | Very hot – sightseeing can be challenging |
| September-October | 14°C to 29°C (57-84°F) | 13°C to 28°C (55-82°F) | 14°C to 29°C (57-84°F) | 12°C to 27°C (54-81°F) | Ideal – harvest season and perfect temperatures |
| November-December | 3°C to 14°C (37-57°F) | 2°C to 14°C (36-57°F) | 3°C to 15°C (37-59°F) | 0°C to 10°C (32-50°F) | Increasingly cold, fewer tourists |
2025 Post-Pandemic Travel Adjustments
Since resuming tourism after the pandemic, Uzbekistan has implemented several significant changes:
- Visa liberalization: 90 countries now enjoy visa-free access for 30 days, with e-visa options for most others
- Health protocols: No COVID-19 entry requirements as of 2025, but carry hand sanitizer as it’s not always available
- Digital transformation: More accommodations and transportation are bookable online now
- Tourism infrastructure: New boutique hotels and family guesthouses have opened in secondary destinations like Nurata and Shakhrisabz
- English proficiency: Noticeably improved in tourism hubs but still limited in rural areas
Visa & Entry Requirements Updated for 2025
Uzbekistan has dramatically simplified its visa process compared to when I first visited in 2018. For my 2024 trip, I didn’t need a visa at all as a U.S. citizen, and the passport control took less than 5 minutes.
Current Visa Categories
- Visa-free entry (30 days): Available for citizens of 90 countries including the US, Canada, EU members, UK, Australia, and Japan
- E-visa (30 days): Available for 77 nationalities not eligible for visa-free entry for $20 USD through the official e-visa portal
- Silk Road visa: Joint visa initiative with Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan (ideal for multi-country Central Asian trips)
Pro Tip: While the official e-visa processing time is 2-3 business days, I recommend applying at least 7 days before your trip. During peak season (September-October), I’ve seen processing take up to 5 days. Also, always print a physical copy of your e-visa—I once had issues when trying to show it on my phone.
Registration Requirements
One quirk of Uzbekistan travel is the accommodation registration system. The good news is this has become much simpler:
- Hotels and registered guesthouses automatically register foreign guests
- Registration slips should be provided for each stay
- While technically required, checks are increasingly rare (I wasn’t checked during my 2024 exit)
If staying with friends or using Airbnb, the property owner should register you through the E-Mehmon system. However, in practice, staying 1-2 nights unregistered in smaller towns rarely causes issues.
Money Matters: Currency, Costs & Insider Saving Tips
During my first trip in 2018, I naively exchanged $300 at the official rate and later discovered I could have gotten 40% more on the black market. Thankfully, Uzbekistan unified its exchange rates in 2019, eliminating this confusing dual system. Managing money is now much more straightforward, though some quirks remain.
The Uzbekistani Som (UZS)
- Current approximate exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 13,300 UZS (as of early 2025)
- ATMs are widely available in cities but can be unreliable or empty
- Card acceptance has dramatically improved since 2019 but remains limited in rural areas
2025 Budget Guidelines (Daily Costs per Person)
| Expense Category | Budget (UZS) | Mid-Range (UZS) | Luxury (UZS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 130,000-200,000 | 330,000-670,000 | 800,000+ |
| Meals | 80,000-130,000 | 130,000-250,000 | 270,000+ |
| Local Transportation | 30,000-50,000 | 50,000-130,000 | 200,000+ |
| Attractions/Activities | 40,000-130,000 | 130,000-270,000 | 270,000+ |
| Daily Total (approx) | 280,000-510,000 | 640,000-1,320,000 | 1,540,000+ |
Three Insider Money-Saving Hacks
- Museum combo tickets: In Bukhara and Samarkand, ask about the city pass at your first museum. For about 330,000 UZS, you can access multiple sites at a significant discount. This isn’t advertised online—I only discovered it when chatting with a museum attendant in Bukhara.
- The unofficial “resident” discount: At bazaars, I’ve saved 30-40% by saying “Mahalliy narx” (local price) with a smile after building rapport with vendors. This simple phrase signals you know inflated tourist prices exist. It won’t always work but has saved me thousands of som on souvenirs.
- Free guided tours through universities: In Tashkent and Samarkand, university students studying tourism often seek practice with English-speaking visitors. Check with the tourism department at the Tashkent State University of Economics or Samarkand State University. I’ve had exceptional, personalized tours this way while helping students practice.
Money Mistake I Made: In 2019, I withdrew 5 million som from an ATM without realizing how massive this stack of cash would be. I then had to walk around Tashkent with what looked like a small brick in my bag. ATMs typically dispense 50,000 or 100,000 som notes, meaning even modest withdrawals create thick wads of cash. Consider multiple smaller withdrawals instead.
Transportation Guide: Navigating Uzbekistan in 2025
Transportation across Uzbekistan has improved dramatically over my years visiting. The high-speed train network especially has transformed the experience of traveling between major cities. Here’s my practical breakdown of options.
Long-Distance Transportation
Afrosiyob High-Speed Train
This high-speed rail line connects Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara with comfortable, modern trains reaching speeds of 250 km/h. After taking it five times, it’s definitively my recommended option.
- Tashkent to Samarkand: 2 hours, 220,000-330,000 UZS (economy to business class)
- Samarkand to Bukhara: 1.5 hours, 180,000-270,000 UZS
- Tashkent to Bukhara: 3.5 hours, 280,000-420,000 UZS
Pro Tip: Book high-speed train tickets 7+ days in advance during high season (April-May and September-October). The convenient morning departures sell out first. Economy class is perfectly comfortable, but business class includes meal service and wider seats.
Regular Trains
Slower but much cheaper options connect additional cities including Khiva.
- Tashkent to Samarkand: 4 hours, 70,000-110,000 UZS
- Bukhara to Khiva: 5-6.5 hours, 90,000-150,000 UZS (launched in 2022)
Shared Taxis & Marshrutkas
For routes without convenient train service, shared taxis remain the backbone of intercity transport. Find them at designated stands near bazaars.
- Cost basis: Approximately 80,000-100,000 UZS per 100km
- Departure timing: Leave when full (usually 4 passengers)
- Comfort level: Basic but functional
City Transportation
Tashkent Metro
The Tashkent Metro is not just transportation but an attraction in itself. Each station features unique Soviet-era architectural designs and themes. Photography restrictions were lifted in 2018, making it more tourist-friendly.
- Single ride: 1,500 UZS
- Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Safety: Extremely safe with security checks at entrances
Ridesharing Apps
The ridesharing revolution has reached Uzbekistan, making city navigation much easier:
- Yandex Go: The dominant app, like Uber but Russian-based
- MyTaxi: Local alternative with similar functionality
Both apps function in English and accept credit cards through the app (though cash is also an option). Base fares typically start around 10,000-15,000 UZS with per-kilometer charges of about 2,000-3,000 UZS.
The Great Uzbek Itinerary: 7-14 Days Planned
After multiple trips and plenty of mistakes (like trying to cram too much into too few days), I’ve refined what I believe is the optimal Uzbekistan itinerary. The classic route follows the Silk Road cities from east to west, allowing for a logical progression with increasingly impressive historical sites.
Classic 7-Day Itinerary
If you only have a week, this hits the essentials without exhausting yourself:
- Day 1-2: Tashkent
- Chorsu Bazaar and the surrounding old town
- Khast Imam Complex with the world’s oldest Quran
- Ride the ornate Soviet metro system
- Amir Timur Square and the History Museum
- Day 3-4: Samarkand
- Registan Square (best at sunset and again illuminated at night)
- Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
- Bibi-Khanym Mosque
- Shah-i-Zinda necropolis
- Siab Bazaar
- Day 5-7: Bukhara
- Lyabi-Hauz plaza and pool
- Po-i-Kalyan complex including the Kalyan Minaret
- Trading domes and bazaars
- Ark Fortress
- Half-day trip to Sitorai Mohi Khosa (Summer Palace)
Comprehensive 14-Day Itinerary
With two weeks, you can add the desert citadel of Khiva and more off-the-beaten-path experiences:
- Day 1-2: Tashkent (as above)
- Day 3: Tashkent to Fergana Valley day trip
- Kokand’s Khudoyar Khan Palace
- Rishton ceramic workshops
- Margilan silk factory
- Day 4-6: Samarkand (as above, plus):
- Ulugh Beg Observatory
- Day trip to Shakhrisabz (birthplace of Timur)
- Day 7-9: Bukhara (as above, plus):
- Chor Minor
- Hammam experience in a traditional bathhouse
- Cooking class in a local home
- Day 10: Bukhara to Khiva
- Train journey through the desert
- Evening arrival in Khiva
- Day 11-12: Khiva
- Ichon-Qala (walled inner city)
- Kalta Minor Minaret
- Tosh-Hovli Palace
- Juma Mosque with its 218 wooden columns
- Climb the city walls at sunset
- Day 13: Khiva to Nukus
- Visit the remarkable Savitsky Museum with its forbidden Soviet art
- Optional extension to see the remains of the Aral Sea
- Day 14: Fly from Nukus to Tashkent
- Final shopping and departure
Personal Anecdote: My biggest Uzbekistan travel mistake was underestimating distances and trying to “just add Khiva” to a 7-day trip. The overnight train from Bukhara left me exhausted, I only had one day in Khiva, and then faced another long journey back. The compressed schedule meant I couldn’t fully appreciate the incredible desert fortress city. Give Khiva at least two full days if you make the journey west.
Sustainable Tourism Alternatives
To reduce your carbon footprint while supporting local communities:
- Community-based tourism in Nurata: Stay with local families in the mountains
- Kyzylkum desert yurt stays: Between Bukhara and Khiva
- Homestays in the Fergana Valley: Learn about traditional craft production
Accommodation Guide: From Soviet Hotels to Boutique B&Bs
Uzbekistan’s accommodation scene has transformed since my first visit. The range now spans from unrenovated Soviet-era hotels to exquisite boutique properties in restored merchant houses. Here’s what to expect in 2025:
Budget Options (130,000-270,000 UZS)
- Hostels: Growing in major cities with dorm beds from 130,000 UZS
- Basic guesthouses: Private rooms with shared bathrooms from 200,000 UZS
- Recommendations:
- Tashkent: Topchan Hostel (private rooms available)
- Samarkand: B&B Antica (family-run with incredible hospitality)
- Bukhara: Komil Boutique Hotel (surprisingly affordable traditional courtyard house)
Mid-Range Options (270,000-800,000 UZS)
- Boutique hotels: Often in restored historic buildings
- Modern hotels: Business-style accommodations with expected amenities
- Recommendations:
Luxury Options (800,000+ UZS)
- International chains: Hyatt Regency and Hilton in Tashkent
- Heritage properties: Converted madrasas and merchant mansions
- Recommendations:
- Tashkent: Hyatt Regency (best international standard option)
- Samarkand: Bibi-Khanum Hotel (incredible views of the namesake mosque)
- Bukhara: Zargaron Plaza (sophisticated luxury in the heart of the old city)
Booking Tip: While major booking platforms work for Uzbekistan, I’ve frequently secured 10-15% discounts by emailing properties directly after finding them online. Many boutique hotels prefer direct bookings to avoid commission fees. Just be sure to confirm your reservation with a credit card or partial payment.
Unique Accommodation Experiences
Some of my most memorable stays have been in non-standard accommodations:
- Desert yurt camps between Bukhara and Khiva (400,000-600,000 UZS)
- Converted madrasas in Bukhara (former Islamic schools now boutique hotels)
- Homestays in rural areas like Nurata and the Fergana Valley (200,000-270,000 UZS)
The Caravanistan website maintains excellent, updated information on unique accommodation options throughout Central Asia.
Food & Drink: Navigating Uzbek Cuisine
Uzbek cuisine has been the highlight of each of my visits. Rich, hearty, and built around communal eating, traditional Uzbek food reflects the country’s nomadic heritage and position as a cultural crossroads. Come hungry—portion sizes are incredibly generous.
Essential Dishes to Try
- Plov: The national rice dish with carrots, meat, and spices. Regional variations exist throughout the country. In Tashkent, try the Central Asian Plov Center for an authentic experience.
- Shashlik: Marinated and grilled meat skewers, usually served with raw onions and non bread
- Lagman: Hand-pulled noodles in a spicy broth with vegetables and meat
- Manti: Large steamed dumplings filled with meat or pumpkin
- Samsa: Baked pastries with meat or vegetable fillings, often cooked in tandoor ovens
- Non: Round bread stamped with decorative patterns, essential at every meal
Where to Eat: From Street Food to Fine Dining
Budget Options (25,000-80,000 UZS per meal)
- Bazaar food stalls: For freshly made samsa and other snacks
- Fast food cafes: Serving simple lagman, plov, and shashlik
- Recommendations:
- Tashkent: Stalls around Chorsu Bazaar
- Samarkand: Cafes near Siab Bazaar
- Bukhara: Small restaurants around Lyabi-Hauz
Mid-Range Options (80,000-200,000 UZS per meal)
- Traditional restaurants: Full service with wider menu selection
- Recommendations:
- Tashkent: Plov Center (spectacularly large communal plov)
- Samarkand: Platan (garden setting with excellent service)
- Bukhara: Chinar (beautiful courtyard dining)
Fine Dining (250,000+ UZS per meal)
- International cuisine: Available primarily in Tashkent
- Upscale Uzbek: Traditional recipes with gourmet presentation
- Recommendations:
- Tashkent: Afsona (refined Uzbek cuisine in elegant setting)
- Bukhara: Bella Italia (when you need a break from Uzbek food)
Dining Mistake I Made: During my first trip, I ordered kalla-pocha in Bukhara without knowing what it was. I was surprised when a sheep’s head and feet soup arrived at my table! While it’s a delicacy for locals, it might be challenging for first-timers. When in doubt, discreetly ask other diners what they’re enjoying or request picture menus, which are increasingly common.
Drinking in a Muslim Country
While Uzbekistan is predominantly Muslim, alcohol is widely available and drinking culture is relatively relaxed compared to more conservative Islamic countries.
- Tea (choy): The national drink, served throughout the day
- Local wine: Surprisingly decent, especially from the Samarkand region
- Beer: Local brands include Sarbast and UzCarlsberg
- Vodka: Readily available and often excellent quality
During Ramadan, some smaller restaurants may close during daylight hours, but most tourist-oriented establishments remain open.
Cultural Know-How: Customs, Etiquette & Language
Understanding local customs has significantly enhanced my Uzbekistan experiences. While the country is fairly relaxed compared to some Muslim destinations, showing cultural awareness goes a long way toward meaningful interactions.
Essential Cultural Tips
- Greetings: Shake hands with men; wait for women to extend their hand first
- Religious sites: Women should cover shoulders and knees; head coverings are required at active mosques
- Photography: Always ask before photographing people, especially women in rural areas
- Shoes: Remove them when entering homes and certain historic sites
- Eating: The right hand is traditionally used for eating; bread is never placed upside down
- Gifts: Small gifts from your home country are appreciated when invited to homes
Useful Uzbek Phrases
Russian is widely understood in cities, but learning a few Uzbek phrases shows respect for local culture:
| English | Uzbek | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Assalomu alaykum | ah-sah-LOM-oo ah-LAY-koom |
| Thank you | Rahmat | rah-MAHT |
| Yes/No | Ha/Yo’q | hah/yohk |
| Please | Iltimos | ill-tee-MOSS |
| How much? | Qancha turadi? | kan-CHA too-RAH-dee |
| Too expensive | Qimmat | kim-MAHT |
| Delicious | Mazali | mah-ZAH-lee |
| Local price, please | Mahalliy narx, iltimos | ma-HAL-liy narh, ill-tee-MOSS |
Cultural Experiences Beyond the Monuments
Some of my most meaningful experiences have been immersive cultural activities:
- Home cooking classes: Learn to make plov or manti with local families
- Craft workshops: Try ceramics in Rishton or silk weaving in Margilan
- Hammam visits: Experience traditional bathhouses, especially in Bukhara
- Attend a wedding: If invited (as foreign guests sometimes are), accept! Uzbek weddings are spectacular events
Cultural Faux Pas I Made: During my second visit, I casually placed a piece of non bread upside down on the table while dining with a local family in Samarkand. The grandmother quickly flipped it over, explaining that bread is sacred and placing it face-down is considered extremely disrespectful. Similarly, never throw away bread—if you see discarded crusts in public parks, they’re left for birds, not trashed.
Shopping Guide: Souvenirs & Handicrafts
Uzbekistan offers some of Central Asia’s finest handicrafts, with traditions passed down for generations. Each region specializes in different crafts, making shopping across the country a diverse experience.
What to Buy & Where
- Ceramics: Rishton and Gijduvan for blue and green pottery
- Textiles: Fergana Valley for ikat fabrics and Atlas silk
- Carpets: Bukhara and Khiva for wool and silk carpets
- Wood carving: Khiva for intricately carved doors and chests
- Knives: Chust for traditional handmade knives
- Paper: Samarkand for handmade silk paper
Best Shopping Locations
- Tashkent: Chorsu Bazaar for everything; Broadway Street for contemporary crafts
- Samarkand: Siab Bazaar and shops around Registan
- Bukhara: Trading domes specializing in different goods
- Khiva: Workshops inside Ichon-Qala walled city
Bargaining Ethics & Tips
Bargaining is expected at bazaars and with street vendors, but should be good-natured:
- Begin by establishing rapport—compliment the craftsmanship
- Ask the price without showing too much interest
- Counter with approximately 50-60% of the initial offer
- Expect to settle around 60-70% of the original price
- Be prepared to walk away (but follow through if you do!)
Shopping Tip: For fixed-price workshops where the artisan sells directly, bargaining isn’t appropriate—these prices reflect fair value for handmade work. However, at tourist markets selling mass-produced items, vigorous negotiation is expected. I once paid 400,000 UZS for a “silk” scarf in Bukhara, only to find identical machine-made polyester versions for 100,000 UZS in Tashkent’s Chorsu Bazaar.
Customs & Export Restrictions
Be aware of restrictions when purchasing antiques:
- Items over 50 years old require special export permits
- Carpets need certificates of origin for export
- Reputable dealers provide necessary documentation
- Declare significant purchases on departure
Your 2025 Uzbekistan Action Plan
After five visits spanning seven years, I’ve developed a systematic approach to planning Uzbekistan trips that maximizes experiences while avoiding common pitfalls. Here’s my five-step action plan for your 2025 adventure:
5-Step Uzbekistan Planning Framework
- Time your visit strategically
- Book flights 4-6 months in advance for April-May or September-October
- Check for major festivals like Navruz (March 21) to either join or avoid crowds
- Allow minimum 7 days in-country for the classic route (Tashkent-Samarkand-Bukhara)
- Secure transportation first, accommodation second
- Book high-speed train tickets immediately when the booking window opens (45 days before)
- Build your itinerary around confirmed train availability
- Reserve accommodations within walking distance of major attractions
- Prepare financially
- Bring new, uncreased USD in various denominations
- Notify your bank of travel to prevent card freezes
- Download Yandex Go and set up payment before arrival
- Budget 30% more than you think you’ll need for spontaneous opportunities
- Address practical health considerations
- Pack basic medications including anti-diarrheal medicine
- Bring wet wipes and hand sanitizer
- Purchase travel insurance with evacuation coverage
- Download offline maps and translation apps before arrival
- Enhance cultural experiences through preparation
- Learn 5-10 basic Uzbek phrases
- Read one historical book about Central Asia before visiting
- Research specific crafts from regions you’ll visit
- Connect with locals through social media travel groups before arriving
Final Personal Tip: Schedule downtime between cities. After making this mistake repeatedly, I’ve learned that including a “buffer day” with no scheduled activities in each major stop allows for spontaneous invitations, unexpected discoveries, and recovery from the inevitable travel fatigue. Some of my most treasured Uzbekistan memories came from unplanned wanderings on these free days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Uzbekistan safe for tourists in 2025?
Yes, Uzbekistan remains one of Central Asia’s safest countries with very low crime rates against tourists. The police presence is noticeable in tourist areas, and violent crime is extremely rare. The primary safety concerns are typical travel issues like pickpocketing in crowded bazaars. As a solo female traveler on two of my trips, I’ve never felt threatened, even when walking alone at night in major cities.
What’s the internet and connectivity situation?
Internet access has improved dramatically since 2018. All hotels and many cafés offer Wi-Fi, though speeds vary. For mobile connectivity, purchase a local SIM card (Ucell or Beeline) at the airport for around 40,000 UZS. This provides generous data at affordable rates. Note that some messaging apps occasionally experience disruptions, so having multiple communication options is wise.
Can I drink the tap water?
No, tap water is not safe for visitors to drink. Stick to bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. When at restaurants, specify “no ice” unless you confirm they use filtered water for ice preparation. I bring a water purification bottle on my trips to reduce plastic waste.
How strict is the dress code for women?
Uzbekistan is moderately conservative but not strict. In major cities and tourist areas, Western clothing is common. Women should dress modestly when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered, with a scarf for the head). In rural areas, more conservative dress is appropriate. Men should avoid shorts in religious buildings. The dress code is generally more relaxed than in many other Muslim countries.
What’s the bathroom situation like?
Bathrooms vary dramatically. Tourist restaurants and hotels have Western-style toilets, while public facilities and rural locations might have squat toilets. Always carry toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as these aren’t consistently provided. Paid public toilets (2,000-5,000 UZS) in tourist areas tend to be better maintained than free ones.
How much should I tip?
Tipping wasn’t traditionally part of Uzbek culture but has become expected in tourist establishments. In restaurants, 5-10% is appropriate for good service. Tour guides expect 30,000-50,000 UZS per day. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but rounding up the fare is appreciated. In local, non-tourist restaurants, tipping isn’t necessary.
Can I travel between cities independently, or should I book tours?
Independent travel between major cities is straightforward using the high-speed train network. For more remote areas like the Aral Sea or mountain villages, organized tours provide easier access. I typically mix both approaches—independent travel for main cities and day tours for specialized interests or remote locations.
How has tourism changed post-pandemic?
Tourism has rebounded strongly since 2022, with infrastructure improvements continuing. New boutique hotels have opened, and more English signage appears in tourist areas. Online booking systems have improved significantly. Health protocols have largely returned to pre-pandemic norms, with masks now uncommon except in healthcare settings. The most significant change is the expansion of visa-free travel to many more nationalities.
Is it possible to attend cultural performances?
Yes, particularly in Bukhara and Samarkand. Evening folklore shows are organized at venues like the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah in Bukhara. These feature traditional music, dance, and fashion. While somewhat staged for tourists, they offer authentic cultural expressions. For less touristy performances, check event listings at the Navoi Theater in Tashkent for classical concerts and ballet.
How accessible is vegetarian or vegan food?
Vegetarianism is not widely understood, though this is improving in tourist areas. The concept of veganism remains largely unknown. Vegetarians can rely on non bread, salads, pumpkin manti (specify “bez go’sht” – without meat), and lagman soups (again, request without meat). In Tashkent, several international restaurants cater to vegetarians. Vegans will find travel more challenging and should consider bringing supplementary foods.
References & Further Reading
- Caravanistan: Uzbekistan Travel Guide – Comprehensive and regularly updated resource for Central Asian travel
- Advantour: Uzbekistan Tourism Portal – Detailed information on destinations and practical travel advice
- Official Tourism Portal of Uzbekistan – Government tourism information with event calendars
- Lonely Planet: Uzbekistan – Reliable destination guides and practical information
- Silk Road Explore – Specialized information on Silk Road destinations with historical context
- Official E-Visa Portal of Uzbekistan – For visa application and current requirements
- Uzbekistan Railways – Official site for train booking and timetables
- UNESCO World Heritage in Uzbekistan – Detailed information on Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage sites
- Taste Atlas: Uzbek Cuisine – Comprehensive guide to Uzbek food and regional specialties
- Journal of Nomads: Uzbekistan Travel Blog – Personal travel experiences with practical advice
- The Crazy Tourist: Things to Do in Uzbekistan – Destination-specific activity recommendations
- Made in Uzbekistan – Information on authentic Uzbek crafts and artisan products